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Since he was old enough to walk, Josh Stanley kept his eye on how his family’s business was operated. Now a second-semester freshman at WestConn, Josh is learning both sides of the business by working toward a degree in small business management.

The 19-year-old Danbury resident works two jobs, including as project manager for his family’s paving business, to pay for half of his tuition. His burden was lightened earlier this year after he was awarded the Hawley Family scholarship.

“Scholarships are important because they give everyone a chance to go to college without having the burden of repaying student loans on your mind,” Josh said. “This scholarship makes thing easier for me, especially after graduation when it’s time to repay loans.”

The Hawley Family Endowed Scholarship was established in 2002 for graduating seniors from three local high schools: Danbury, Henry Abbott Tech and Immaculate. Josh graduated last year from Danbury High School, where he served as senior class president. Scholarships are awarded to incoming students of the Ancell School of Business.

While affordability was one reason for choosing WestConn, Josh’s main objective was to stay close to home and continue working for his parents. His father started the family business in 1992 and since that time Josh has seen changes from handwritten paychecks to computerized statements and from one backhoe to a fleet of excavators and other large equipment. “We can actually recycle a driveway,” he said. He’s also observed the changes wrought by modern ecological and economic demands. He said learning commercial law and management information systems at WestConn will help him keep ahead of the competition.